AI predicts Newcastle United's transfer window with Alexander Isak - and without him
We asked AI to predict how the rest of Newcastle United’s summer transfer window plays out - and here’s what it said.
Newcastle United’s summer has been defined by two rather negative factors - the ongoing Alexander Isak saga, which shows no sign of ending, and the inability to spend the money in their pocket, never mind any that might drop in the future.
Just Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale, which will be confirmed in due course, are in so far, with - hopefully - a few more on the way in the month of the window.
So, with all of that in mind, we asked AI tool Grok to predict what will happen in the final four weeks - with and without the exit of Alexander Isak.
AI predicts NUFC transfer window
Newcastle United Football Club (NUFC) faces a pivotal transfer window as they prepare for the 2025/26 season, with their ambitions bolstered by recent Champions League qualification and a Carabao Cup triumph. The potential exit of star striker Alexander Isak, who has expressed a desire to explore other options, looms large over their plans. Below, I outline two scenarios for NUFC’s transfer window: one where Isak remains and another where he departs. These predictions are based on current reports, financial considerations, and the club’s strategic needs, while critically assessing the challenges and opportunities.
Scenario 1: Alexander Isak stays at Newcastle United
Assumptions
- Newcastle successfully convinces Isak to stay, possibly through a new contract offering a significant pay rise (e.g., from £120,000 to ~£200,000 per week, as reported in contract talks).
- The club leverages their Champions League status and long-term contract (until 2028) to retain him, avoiding a sale despite interest from clubs like Liverpool.
- No formal transfer request is made, and Eddie Howe’s man-management skills help reintegrate Isak.
NUFC signings
Newcastle’s priorities, as outlined by Eddie Howe, include a goalkeeper, a right-sided centre-back, a right-winger, and a forward to complement Isak.
Goalkeeper: Interest in Aaron Ramsdale (Southampton, loan deal reported) suggests a move to upgrade or provide competition for Nick Pope. A loan deal for Ramsdale seems likely, given financial constraints after missing other targets like James Trafford.
Center-Back: With Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace) and Piero Hincapié (Bayer Leverkusen) on the radar, Newcastle may secure a versatile defender like Hincapié for ~£50m to strengthen their backline for European competition.
Right-Winger: After missing out on Bryan Mbeumo (joined Manchester United), Newcastle could target a player like Charles De Ketelaere (Atalanta). A budget signing (~£30m) is probable to add depth.
Forward: To support Isak, Newcastle may pursue Brentford’s Yoane Wissa (£35-40m), despite Brentford’s reluctance, or RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as a long-term investment (~£60m). Wissa seems more realistic given Sesko’s high valuation and reluctance to sign.
Midfield: Interest in Nicolò Barella (Inter Milan) or a budget option like Mika Biereth (Arsenal) could see a creative midfielder added to ease pressure on Bruno Guimarães. A loan or ~£40m deal is feasible.
Summary if Isak stays
With Isak: Newcastle is likely to make 3-4 signings (goalkeeper, center-back, winger, forward) for ~£100-150m, retaining their star striker and aiming for a top-six finish with a strong Champions League campaign. The challenge lies in managing Isak’s expectations and competing with elite clubs for targets.
Scenario 2: Alexander Isak leaves Newcastle United
Assumptions
- Isak pushes for a move, with Liverpool meeting Newcastle’s £120-150m valuation (potentially including Darwin Nunez in a swap deal).
- The transfer occurs late in the window (by September 1, 2025), forcing Newcastle to act swiftly to replace him.
- Newcastle’s board prioritizes financial gain and squad reinvestment over retaining an unhappy player.
NUFC signings
Replacement Striker(s):Newcastle urgently seeks a marquee striker to replace Isak’s 27 goals. Potential targets include: Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig): A £60-80m deal for the young Slovenian, who fits Howe’s system and has long-term potential. Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea): Valued at ~£65m, Jackson could be attainable if Chelsea pursue other targets. His pace suits Newcastle’s counter-attacking style. Aleksandar Mitrović (Al-Nassr): A £40-50m return for the former Newcastle striker, offering proven Premier League pedigree and physicality. A second forward is likely, with Yoane Wissa (£40m) or Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal, ~£45m) targeted to ensure depth. Wissa’s Champions League ambitions align with Newcastle’s offer.
Additional Signings:The £120-150m from Isak’s sale, minus ~£80-100m for a new striker, leaves ~£40-70m for other areas.
Center-Back: Marc Guéhi (£60m) or Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund, ~£50m) as a statement signing to solidify the defense.
Midfield: A creative player like Nicolò Barella (~£60m) or Christopher Nkunku (Chelsea, loan) to replace Isak’s playmaking from deep positions.
Winger: Charles De Ketelaere or Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United, loan) to add flair, especially if Anthony Gordon attracts interest.
Summary if Isak leaves
Without Isak: A £120-150m sale triggers a scramble for a replacement (e.g., Sesko, Jackson, or Mitrović) and additional signings (4-5 total), with ~£150-200m spent. The squad may be deeper but less potent, targeting a top-eight finish with fan discontent a risk.